Guru Brahma Guru Vishnuगुरुर्ब्रह्मा गुरुर्विष्णुः
Devoted to Sat-Guru (Universal Guru principle)
Source: Guru Gita / Skanda Purana
Transliteration
gurur brahma gurur vishnur gurur devo maheshwarah guruh sakshat parabrahma tasmai shri gurave namah
Meaning (English)
The Guru is Brahma, the Guru is Vishnu, the Guru is the divine Maheshwar. The Guru verily is the supreme Brahman; salutations to that revered Guru. Foundational invocation of every Hindu spiritual tradition. Recited before any scripture study, beginning of any sadhana, and at the feet of a living guru.
Benefits (Phal)
Cultivates guru-bhakti — the foundational virtue of all spiritual traditions per Hindu shastra. Removes ego-resistance to learning. Opens the heart to wisdom transmission from teacher to student. Recommended for daily recitation by all students, householders, and seekers regardless of formal guru initiation.
When to Chant
Beginning of any scripture study, before yoga practice, on Thursday (Guruvar), Guru Purnima (Ashadha Purnima), birthday of family guru, before exams or important learning opportunities.
How to Chant
Sit before guru padukas or image. Anjali mudra at heart. Chant 3, 9, or 21 times. Final namaskar prostration. Visualise the lineage of teachers extending back to the original guru — Adi Shankaracharya for Smarta, Ramanuja for Sri Vaishnava, Madhva for Madhwa.
Book a pandit for Guru Brahma Guru Vishnu jaap
Major sankalp (1.25 lakh count or more) traditionally requires a trained pandit. Verified pandits perform on your behalf with full video proof + sankalpa with your gotra/nakshatra.